Woman killed in South Kona collision 08-21-04

MEDIA RELEASE

A 23-year-old female died Friday (August 20, 2004) of injuries she suffered in a two-vehicle collision on the Hawaii Belt road (Route 11) about two-tenths of a mile south of the 87-mile marker in Hoopuloa, South Kona.

Responding to a 9:18 p.m. call Friday, Kona patrol officers determined that the victim, identified as Sunny Kalua, of Naalehu, was driving a 2000 Honda multi-purpose vehicle south on Route 11 when she was involved in a head-on collision with a 2003 Toyota pickup truck traveling north. The pickup truck was driven by Erik Perez, 29, of Hoopuloa.

Kalua was taken to the Kona community Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Perez and a passenger in Kalua’s vehicle, identified as Rosaline Rivera, 22, of Naalehu, were also transported to the hospital, where they were reported in serious condition.

Police have not determined if speed or alcohol were factors in the crash and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. A negligent homicide investigation has been initiated, and anyone with information about the traffic collision is asked to call Officer Eric Cerezo of the Traffic Enforcement Unit at (808) 961-2332.

Friday’s death was the 28th traffic fatality on the Big Island so far this year, compared to 18 at the same time last year.